How to Do the Perfect 80s Photoshoot

To begin, immerse yourself in the essence of the 80s. Watch movies, browse magazines, and explore iconic photographs from the era. Pay attention to the fashion trends, hairstyles, makeup, and overall atmosphere. Create a mood board or a Pinterest board to gather inspiration and reference images. This research will help you develop a clear vision for your 80s photoshoot.

Finding the perfect location can set the tone for your 80s photoshoot. Look for places that embody the 80s aesthetic such as neon-lit city streets, roller skating rinks, arcades, or retro diners. Urban environments with colorful graffiti walls can also serve as excellent backdrops. Alternatively, you can create a studio setup with props, lighting, and backdrops that evoke the spirit of the 80s.

Fashion played a significant role in the 80s, characterized by bold colors, oversized silhouettes, and flashy accessories. For an authentic look, incorporate elements like shoulder pads, leather jackets, acid-wash jeans, neon leggings, and graphic t-shirts. Don’t forget to experiment with accessories like chunky jewelry, fingerless gloves, scrunchies, and iconic sunglasses. Consider hiring a stylist or visiting thrift stores to find authentic clothing pieces for your 80s photoshoot.

Hairstyles of the 80s were voluminous, dramatic, and often involved lots of hairspray! Research popular hairstyles from the era, such as big teased hair, mullets, or crimped locks. If necessary, use wigs or hair extensions to achieve the desired look. For makeup, focus on bold and vibrant colors. Think blue eyeshadow, bright blush, and glossy lips. Don’t shy away from experimenting with bold and unconventional makeup choices.

Lighting played a crucial role in 80s photography. To recreate the aesthetic, experiment with vibrant and colorful lighting setups. Use colored gels on your lights or try using neon lights for a retro vibe. Strong directional lighting with deep shadows can add drama to your shots. When composing your photographs, think about incorporating dynamic poses, angles, and playful expressions to capture the energy and spirit in your 80s photoshoot.

To enhance the authenticity of your 80s photoshoot, include props and accessories that were popular during that time. Consider items like boomboxes, cassette tapes, vinyl records, old telephones, Rubik’s cubes, arcade games, and vintage cars. These props can add visual interest and create a narrative within your photos.

The 80s were known for their infectious music and carefree attitude. Create a playlist featuring iconic 80s hits to set the mood during the shoot. Encourage your models to let loose and embrace the fun-loving and confident spirit of the era. Candid shots capturing genuine laughter and exuberance can often result in the most memorable and authentic images.